Acting Tips - The Art of "Centering"

While some of the greatest acting coaches of our time have various methods of engaging actors within their character, there is a primary rule that is universal among all training approaches - true acting and character development comes from within. As you approach a character and script, there are several things you must be aware of; however, the most important out of all these is understanding how your body affects your character choices.

One of the most important things you as an actor must understand is how to properly align your body, which is known as centering. While some think that "centering" means to make your body stiff due to ultra-focus, this couldn't be furthest from the truth. The term "centering" refers to having correct posture and body alignment, which not only serves you as an actor, but also correct centering has health benefits.

Centering for Your Character

When we were all babies, we had perfect posture. We sat up straight, walked with our heads focused and straight; however, as we age, bad habits cause our alignment, or "center," to become off. We hunch our backs while at the computer, bring our shoulders forward and hang our heads low. As an actor, you must understand how to break away from your own "centering" or "posture," and connect with your characters way of walking, sitting, standing or running.

As you progress within your character development, you must address the following question, "What is my characters' alignment?" To answer this question, you must first delve into the history and personality of your character. How you carry your body is a direct reflection of your personal history as well as your view of yourself as a person. The same is true for your character.

Although the true movements of your character will vary according to his personality, it is important to remember that your personal "centering" will have very little to do with your character. You character is likely to have a different way of moving, sitting, standing and even mannerisms. To create a lifelike character, you must make these choices based on the character biography and the personality of your character.

This will take some time; however, once you have a true grasp on the "centering" of your character, you will be able to portray a person that is not only far from yourself, but also realistic and believable within the eyes of the audience.